Hi Donald,

From within Windows, XP will not allow you to reinstall if the installed 
version is newer, in any way, than the version on the install disc. For 
example, if you initially installed XP SP1, updated to SP2, then attempted 
to reinstall the SP1 version, you would encounter the same problem.

What you have to do in this instance is boot the computer from the install 
CD. You did not list the model, etc., of your Dell so the procedure listed 
below to change the boot order may not be correct. If it isn't, go to the 
Web site listed and proceed with the instructions for your model.

Dell - Microsoft® Windows® XP Reinstall Guide:
http://tinyurl.com/gpx9l

To change the boot order in System Setup (you may want to print this):

1. Insert the Dell install CD in the CD drive.

2. Restart the system. When the "Dell logo" screen appears, press the "F2" 
key to enter the System Setup.

3. Press the "Right Arrow" key on your keyboard to highlight "Boot".

4. Press the "Up Arrow" key or the "Down Arrow" key to highlight "CD-ROM 
Device".

5. Press the "F5" key or the "F6" key on the keyboard to move "CD-ROM 
Device" to the top of the list.

6. Press the "F10" key.

7. Press the spacebar to select "Yes".

8. Press the "Enter" key to "Save changes and exit now".

The computer should restart. Watch the screen and if an option "Press any 
key to boot from CD" appears, do so. Proceed with the install when prompted.

Sven Swanson, Sr.
The NoSpin Group, Inc.

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Donald DeWitt" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Wednesday, September 13, 2006 4:26 PM
Subject: [PCBUILD] XP Reinstall


*I have a four year old Dell desktop that was factory equipped with XP Home
addition. Some time ago I had upgraded to XP Professional. Now I intend to
give the computer to my grand daughter and I'd like to format the hard drive
and reinstall the original operating system for her. However when I place
the original CD in the drive and click on the reinstall option, I get a "can
not do" response. Something about cannot downgrade to XP Home. *

*Is there a way around this installation problem?*
  Donald DeWitt 


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